Trump’s administration picks threaten to dismantle climate science efforts, raising concerns for public health and environmental safety.

Washington: It’s official, 2024 is set to be the hottest year ever recorded. We’ve not only beaten 2023, but we’ve also crossed the Paris Agreement’s limit of 1.5 degrees Celsius. It’s a big deal.
Everywhere you look, the climate crisis is hitting hard. Whether it’s on the news or right outside your window, it’s impossible to ignore. And now, with Trump’s administration picks, there’s a real worry about the future of climate science in America.
It’s pretty outrageous that Trump’s choices for key roles seem bent on undermining climate science. For instance, Lee Zeldin, a known fossil fuel supporter, is being considered to lead the EPA. That’s a huge red flag for communities that rely on clean air and water.
Then there’s Russell Vought, who’s in line to head the Office of Management and Budget. He’s got a history of pushing extreme agendas and wants to make life tough for those working on climate issues. He’s even said he wants to make civil servants feel like villains. That’s just wrong.
Vought’s Project 2025 is all about reshaping how we deal with climate change. He’s looking to take control of the National Climate Assessment, which is crucial for understanding and tackling climate issues. This report is based on the work of hundreds of scientists and is vital for U.S. climate leadership.
Michael Mann, a climate scientist, pointed out that the goal here is to block any efforts to move away from fossil fuels. It’s a serious threat to our health and economy, and it’s alarming to see such a push against the science that guides our climate policies.
Trump has tried to distance himself from Project 2025, claiming he doesn’t know the people behind it. But now, he’s planning to fill his administration with those very contributors. It’s a concerning move.
Project 2025 even suggests getting rid of the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, which plays a key role in climate research and weather forecasting. That’s a dangerous idea, especially as we face more extreme weather.
Just before the election, Congresswoman Sara Jacobs called Project 2025 a threat to democracy and our ability to tackle major issues like climate change. It’s crucial that the Senate rejects Vought and anyone else tied to this project for the sake of our planet and communities.
Ben Jealous, the executive director of the Sierra Club, emphasizes the importance of standing up against these nominations to protect our environment.
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